Familiar a play by Danai Gurira
Steppenwolf Theater, Chicago, Il, USA, Dec13th
by Maja Rios for Unrated Magazine
The wonderful play, Familiar, written and directed by Playwright and director, Danai Gurira, of Zimbabwean parents who presents a play about conflicting norms of American versus African values; Zimbabwean values and customs that their adult American daughters do not wish to embrace, growing up in the USA. The play centers around the upcoming wedding of the oldest daughter, who embraces American values, is marrying a white Anglo-American husband, who though respectful, has yet to learn all expected customs of her parents, especially her mother and Aunt. Her younger sister also embraces the same American values and this creates conflict in the family.
The stage setting is beautiful, detailed, huge 2 levels, staged interior of a middle-class home, down to every detail, the acting is great by all actors. My only criticism is the stage is so large that it is difficult at times to hear the precise dialogue.
Wonderful Zimbabwean customs are presented by the older generation to younger, who don’t care to adopt them willingly and hence the family ”Familiar” conflict begins, as well as a universal theme of generational conflict within families.
This comedy/drama is both entertaining and educational for the audience. The characters develop and grow as the play progresses and we laugh and perhaps cry along with developing the story, whereby the oldest daughter learns she was adopted, and her mother was really an aunt that was a revolutionary back in Zimbabwe.
The universal story is very current in exploring, cultural identity, where we come from, who our parents or ancestors are, what our personal values are, and who we are as individuals, who are each unique in our own way. Very thought provoking and timely play! Go see it! Play runs through Feburary at Steppenwolf Theater, 1650 N Halsted St, Chicago, Ill.
The play is running until the end of Feburary 2019. Check on the Ticket and order your tickets.
For photos of the play click here
